Public Holidays in Dubai 2024

If Dubai is your preferred holiday spot this year, it would be wise to know the public holidays in Dubai ahead of time. The advantage is that you can plan your trip to avoid dates when heavy tourist crowds are anticipated at attractions due to public holidays. Dubai residents can schedule quick escapes from the city. Residents eager to travel overseas may be advised to expedite their visa processing and avoid non-working days and holdups. Whether you are a resident of Dubai or just arranging a visit, staying up-to-date on the public holidays in Dubai will be very helpful.

2024 Dubai Public Holidays

1. New Year’s Day (January 1)

On January 1, 2024, New Year’s Day is celebrated globally with fireworks and a sense of renewal. In Dubai, Burj Khalifa at night is filled with stunning displays, creating an unforgettable experience for residents and tourists alike. Things to do in Dubai on New Year’s Eve On New Year’s Eve in Dubai, enjoy a cruise along Dubai Marina, witness the Burj Khalifa’s fireworks, indulge in a gourmet dinner, or enjoy a desert safari. Enjoy the lively atmosphere at Palm Jumeirah, attend exclusive parties at glamorous venues, and enjoy the vibrant energy of the Dubai Mall.

2. Eid Al Fitr (April 8 to 11)

As the holy month of Ramadan ends, it marks the celebration of Eid al Fitr, which involves city-wide festivities and events. This holiday is observed from Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3, 1443, in accordance with the Islamic Hijri Calendar. Families gather for celebratory dinners, and vibrant decorations adorn Dubai’s popular malls, attractions, etc. Special events are held at Dubai’s malls and tourist destinations, fostering an inclusive environment for people from all walks of life during the Eid holidays in the UAE. It is the ideal time to enjoy all the lavish celebrations that are a part of Dubai’s Eid holiday. From Dubai, you can also organize an exhilarating road trip. Travel to Khasab, Oman. A cruise on a traditional Omani dhow is a must-do while visiting this area. It will take you down the tranquil waters of the Musandam Peninsula, presenting you with the finest chance to see the area’s untamed mountains, fjords, and underwater marine life, together with dolphins, from a novel angle.

3. Arafat Day (June 15) 

Pilgrims gathering atop Mount Arafat to offer prayers and ask for forgiveness is integral to the Hajj pilgrimage. Arafat Day emphasizes the spirit of empathy and compassion and is a day of contemplation and sacrifice.

4. Eid Al Adha (June 16 to 19)

Eid al Adha, the holiday of sacrifice, honors Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to present his son to God as a sacrifice. Celebrations in Dubai involve group prayers, feasts, and the ceremonial offering of animals. The fundamental ideals of this auspicious occasion of Eid in 2024 will be reflected in the city’s overwhelming generosity and sharing.

5. Al Hijri (July 7)

Hijri New Year’s Day is a time for reflection, as it signifies the start of the Islamic lunar calendar. The event encourages a commitment to self-improvement and a fresh start. Residents of Dubai can spend time with family, attend religious lectures, or partake in spiritual activities. The event promotes a fresh start and a dedication to personal development.

6. Birth Anniversary of Prophet Mohammad (September 15)

Mawlid al Nabi, observed on the 12th of Rabi al Awwal, commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s birth anniversary. The community has another chance to come together in remembrance and devotion on the day of Prophet Muhammad’s birthday. Dubai’s colorful streets are adorned with ornaments and lights, fostering a sense of harmony and shared history.

7. Commemoration Day (December 1)

Martyr’s Day, or Commemoration Day, is a day reserved to remember the courageous Emiratis who gave their lives in defense of the country. To honor the sacrifice and commitment of the brave men and women who served this nation, memorial events in Dubai comprise moments of silence, flag-raising ceremonies, and memorial tours.

8. UAE National Day (December 2 and 3)

UAE National Day pays tribute to the unification of seven emirates into one nation and is a day for unity and patriotism. Dubai is turned into a sea of red, green, white, and black with flags, decorations, and patriotic displays. Magnificent fireworks light up the night sky, symbolizing the pride that every citizen of this country has in unifying.

Takeaway

With this list of public holidays in Dubai, you can plan your year around upcoming events and long weekends. The public holidays are determined by applying the Western, Gregorian, and Hijri calendars. The Western calendar fixes the dates for holidays. The Islamic lunar calendar, or Hijri calendar, determines the dates of Islamic holidays like Ramadan and other celebrations. These are only approximate dates and may vary subject to the moon sightings.  Public holidays do not fall during the holy month of Ramadan. The locals observe this Islamic event for a month.

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